AutoNSider Review | 2021 KIA K5 LXS

And that’s pretty much the short and sweet of it.

If you haven’t heard of the K5, it’s the “re-born”, revised and updated Optima from years’ past.

But KIA made so many changes and improvements, they thought a new name was in order.   And I can’t say I disagree.

So what’s new?   Let’s start with the obvious…the new look.  The K5 has an aerodynamic fastback look…able to seat five in real comfort + carry some serious luggage.   And, with it’s pass-thru trunk, able to carry some rather long objects, too.

What else is new?   Performance.   Most K5s come with a 1.6 liter turbo four.      A turbo used to be an option.   Now it’s standard.   And thanks to KIA’s 8-speed auto, your K5 is rated at 27 MPG City and 37 Hwy.   Yes…37 MPG.   That means that you don’t have to sacrifice space to get darn close to 40 MPG on the road.

And the K5’s suspension and brakes deliver a controlled and sporty feel, too.

So if you prefer the security of a trunk and the somewhat quieter ride that a sedan gives…and you want something that’s brand new and going to be covered by one of the industry’s best warranties, KIA’s K5 might deserve a look.

Pricing for K5s starts in the low to mid $20’s…and our test LXS…more of a mid-range model…had a window sticker of $25,455…and that included forward collision and pedestrian avoidance, lane keeping and following assistance, drivers’ attention warning, high beam assist, KIA’s leading vehicle departure assist, and blind-spot, rear cross-traffic, safe exit assist and remote start.

And if you need more, opt for an EXL for around $2,500 more and get your leather and sunroof and a few other extras.   Need even more?   In a few months, KIA will offer a K5 GT…with even more power coming from a 2.5 liter turbo.

But the average driver won’t need more power.   I was unintentionally chirping the front tires all too often with the 1.6 liter.

So if a brand new mid-sized, economical, fun-to-drive sedan with a world-class warranty appeals to you, KIA’s new K5 offers a lot of value for the money.